"On Power" (Robert A. Dahl)

"On Power" by Robert A. Dahl explores how power functions within political systems. He defines power as the ability of one person or group to influence or control the actions of others, often to achieve specific goals. Dahl emphasizes that power is not just about dominance but also about influence, and it can be exercised through persuasion, authority, or coercion. The essay discusses different ways power can be distributed in a society—whether evenly or concentrated—and how this distribution affects democracy, decision-making, and social relations. Overall, it offers a nuanced understanding of how power shapes political life.